Prague-based Elin.ai, a startup focused on improving mental health for young people through AI, has raised €1 million in a pre-seed funding round.
JSK Investments, led by Czech entrepreneur Simona Kijonkova, contributed €420,000, with additional support from Presto Ventures and BD Partners.
Tackling Gen Z’s Mental Health Crisis
Elin.ai’s mission is to address the growing mental health challenges linked to social media and digital environments. The app, designed as a “cognitive antivirus,” analyzes screenshots from devices to offer personalized tools and advice to combat anxiety, stress, and negative thoughts.
Elin.ai collaborates with psychiatrists to develop AI models capable of addressing:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Loneliness
- Eating disorders
The app provides 24/7 support through a chat-based interface, focusing on prevention, crisis management, and long-term mental health.
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Addressing a Societal Need
According to studies, 40% of European teenagers suffer from anxiety or depression, with suicide rates among youth surpassing those of middle-aged adults for the first time.
Simona Kijonkova, founder of JSK Investments, remarked: “Elin.ai is a vital project leveraging AI to deliver accessible mental health support at a time when traditional care is limited. This is about prevention, immediate help, and building resilience in our youth.”
Expansion and Development Goals
Elin.ai, which launched its MVP on Android and iOS in October, already has over 2,000 users and plans to reach 5,000 by year-end. The funding will:
- Enhance its AI models to address broader challenges like conspiracy theories.
- Expand the app to international markets.
Jan Romportl, CEO and Co-Founder of Elin.ai, stated: “This investment allows us to scale globally and refine our tools to better support the mental well-being of Generation Z.”
Backing from JSK Investments
JSK Investments, established by Simona and Jaromír Kijonka, prioritizes socially impactful ventures. Simona previously founded Packeta, a logistics-tech company she sold in 2024 in one of the Czech Republic’s landmark exits.
With its innovative approach to mental health, Elin.ai aims to make a significant impact on improving digital well-being for young people worldwide.
